NEW YORK, New York — Outgoing New York City Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker said Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has “a tremendous amount” of work ahead to gain the trust of the city’s first responders, following Tucker’s decision to resign after Mamdani’s election win. Tucker, who has led the FDNY since August 2024, submitted his resignation to Mayor Eric Adams the day after the general election and will leave the department Dec. 19.
Tucker cited ideological differences with Mamdani and said his Jewish faith played a role in his decision. Several Jewish New Yorkers criticized Mamdani during the campaign for initially failing to condemn the phrase “globalize the intifada,” widely viewed as antisemitic and supportive of political violence. Although Mamdani later discouraged the phrase’s use, Tucker said the mayor-elect’s response to a recent protest outside Park East Synagogue raised additional concerns.
Protesters at that event chanted “globalize the intifada” and “death to the IDF,” prompting Mamdani’s spokesperson to discourage the language while also saying sacred spaces should not host events violating international law. Jewish leaders, now including Tucker, condemned the response as insufficient.
Tucker added that Mamdani’s transition team has not yet reached out to him or the FDNY, something he hopes is “not an indicator” of how the administration views the department. While Tucker prepares to depart, Mamdani will retain NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who has been praised for reducing crime and improving department operations.
Mayor Adams will appoint an interim FDNY commissioner before Mamdani takes office on Jan. 1, 2026.
Sources
• Washington Examiner – MBFC Rating
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